The Federal Government has directed the Vice-Chancellor of the Federal University of Technology, Owerri (FUTO), Prof Ikechukwu Dozie, to immediately withdraw the appointment of 24 aides, citing violations of due process and regulations governing federal universities.
The directive was contained in a letter dated 25 June and signed by the Acting Director of University Education, Dr Kareem O. L., on behalf of the Minister of Education.
According to the ministry, a review of the appointments showed that they did not comply with established procedures within Nigeria’s federal university system.
“After a careful examination of the appointments and the circumstances surrounding them, the Honourable Minister observed that the appointments are at variance with the extant regulations, established procedures, and the principles of due process governing appointments within the Federal University System,” the letter stated.
The ministry ordered the Vice-Chancellor to reverse the appointments immediately and provide evidence that the directive had been implemented.
It also summoned Prof Dozie to Abuja for a meeting with ministry officials on 29 June.
According to the ministry, the meeting will address not only the disputed appointments but also broader issues relating to institutional governance, administrative accountability, compliance with regulations and adherence to due process.
“The Ministry remains committed to promoting transparency, prudence and best practices in the management of our tertiary institutions,” the letter added.
The directive followed the ministry’s review of an internal university memorandum dated 22 June through which the appointments were reportedly made.
A copy of the communication was also forwarded to the National Universities Commission (NUC).
The development is expected to intensify scrutiny of administrative practices at the university, as education authorities continue to emphasise compliance with established regulations across federal tertiary institutions.
